2008 Gas Industry Awards

Northern Gas Networks lifted two trophies at the gas industry's annual awards ceremony.

The awards were received from Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks MP in a glittering event at London's Hilton Hotel.

Northern Gas Networks and its operating partner United Utilities won the Safety Award, based on compliance with health and safety regulations, a reduction in accidents involving employees, contractors and members of the public. Northern Gas Networks also won the Chief Executive of the Year Award for the initiatives and performance which Basil Scarsella has led since the company was created in June 2005.

Dave Hutchison, head of health, safety & environment at Northern Gas Networks, said the company was delighted that its performance in the reduction of accidents had been recognised.

"This award reflects the hard work of a large number of people, from senior management to the men who dig the holes in the roads, " he said. Peter Christie, health & safety manager with United Utilities, said: "It is gratifying that our work has been recognised by senior people from within the industry."

Basil Scarsella was chief executive officer of an Australian electricity distribution company before he took the helm at Northern Gas Networks three years ago. "This award is for the people of Northern Gas Networks and our operating partners and contractors," he said. "The success which we have achieved over the past three years is down to them."

The gas industry awards are organised by the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) and the Society of British Gas Industries (SBGI).